China repeats opposition to foreign interference in HK affairs

BEIJING - China repeated its opposition to foreign interference in Hong Kong affairs on Thursday, saying a stable and prosperous Hong Kong is in the interests of all sides.

The comments came after US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific affairs Daniel Russel denied on Wednesday the protests in Hong Kong was resulted from foreign instigation.

Russel also counselled China to exercise restraint and flexibility to allow the voices of the people of Hong Kong to be heard.

"We have noticed the report. Hong Kong affairs are purely China's domestic affairs, and China firmly oppose any foreign country's interference in any form," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a regular news briefing.

She said China made its stance clear in response to foreign individuals and forces attempting to meddle in Hong Kong affairs or back illegal activities such as the month-long Occupy Central Movement.

"A stable and prosperous China is not only in China's interests but also in the interests of all," the spokeswoman said.

She urged the countries to match their words with action, honor their commitment and do more to contribute to the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

The Occupy Central protests in Hong Kong's busiest district since Sept. 28 resulted in serious traffic disruption, less tourists, temporary closure of schools and banks and a slump in trading in the local stock market.